Officer Out of Coma as Manhunt Continues

The Fairfield police officer shot on Saturday is “in and out” of consciousness after emerging from a medically induced coma, said acting Essex County Prosecutor Robert Laurino.

Officer Gerald Veneziano, 26, is a three-year veteran of the department and remains in critical but stable condition. He was shot multiple times in the torso and chest.

“He’s due to have additional surgery. We’re waiting until he becomes better and stronger,” Laurino said.

The manhunt continues for the shooters. Veneziano was able to identify the getaway car with pen and paper, according to sources reached by the Star-Ledger. However, Fairfield Deputy Police Chief Steven Gutkin said the vehicle’s license plate number was not reported during the incident.

Authorities have refused to publicly say why Veneziano became suspicious of the vehicle that contained the two shooters.

“This is an open and fluid investigation. We’re following up on all leads,” Laurino said.